Police have uncovered a large cannabis factory hidden in an abandoned chicken unit, where criminals cultivated drugs worth £500,000. The remote former agricultural site near Burbage, Wiltshire, contained over 1,500 plants, making it one of the largest farms discovered in the area. Detectives estimated that the operation consumed around £1.5 million worth of electricity from the national grid.
The discovery was made by a member of the public on July 17, leading to the dismantling of the dangerous electricity supply by engineers. Wiltshire Police shared a video showcasing the extensive drug factory complete with living quarters and approximately 1,300 plants ready for cultivation and distribution.
The living area within the barn was equipped with essential amenities including bedding, a toilet, and a kitchen featuring a stove, sink, and washing machine. Detective Sergeant Joe Shanklin described the setup as where the criminals lived and prepared meals. The police highlighted that the cannabis facility had proper ventilation, power supply, and water, indicating a significant and sophisticated operation.
Detective Sergeant Shanklin emphasized the size of the factory, stating that while similar setups were encountered before, the scale of this operation was notably large. Authorities are working to remove the equipment and plants, with plans to relocate and destroy the cannabis. Although no arrests have been made yet, an investigation is ongoing.
Wiltshire Police urged the public to report any suspicions of illegal drug activities, emphasizing the importance of community involvement in combating such crimes. They provided contact information for reporting any potential drug-related activities.
